Nolvadex is a non-steroidal antagonist of estrogens. Specifically binds to estrogen receptors in peripheral and tumor tissues. Thus, eliminates the effect of estrogens produced in the body and stimulating the growth of cancer cells.

Slows the progression of the tumor process. After taking a single dose a few weeks will retain the ability to block estrogens. Causes ovulation in women, in men with oligospermia increases the level of LH and FSH.

Pharmacokinetics

When ingested quickly absorbed, and after 5-7 hours in the blood creates a maximum concentration. 99% is associated with blood proteins (albumin). Excretion takes place biphasic: initial T 1/2 from 8 to 14 h, final T 1/2 – 7 days. It is excreted with feces, only a small part with urine. Indications for useNolvadex is used when:

Instructions for use (Method and dosage)Nolvadex pills are taken orally without chewing, with water. It is possible to take the whole dose at one time in the morning or for two meals – in the morning and in the evening. In breast cancer 20-40 mg is prescribed, with endometrial cancer 30-40 mg. The maximum SD is 40 mg. Treatment is carried out for a long time, often in combination with cytostatic and radiotherapy.

During the treatment period, blood coagulability, leukocytes, platelets, calcium level in the blood, liver function are controlled. The oculist is examined quarterly and gynecological examination. The drug Nolvadex is ineffective in the presence of metastases (especially in the liver). Overdose
It is manifested by increased side effects. Symptomatic treatment is performed. Antidote does not exist.Nolvadex (Tamoxifen) enhances the effect of anticoagulants. Simultaneous reception of the drug with estrogen-containing contraceptives causes a decrease in the effect of both drugs.

Use with Tegafur can lead to hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver. Allopurinol also enhances its hepatotoxic effect.

Joint reception with cytostatics significantly increases the risk of thrombosis.
Admission with diuretics of the thiazide series increases the risk of hypercalcemia.

H2-histamine receptor blockers and antacids can cause premature dissolution of the enteric-dissolving tablet, so the time between taking these drugs should be 2 hours.

Storage conditions
At temperatures up to 30C.

Shelf life
5 years.

Despite the fact that Tamoxifen has been used to treat and prevent the recurrence of breast cancer since 1998, it can now be considered a “gold standard” in the treatment of this disease. Nolvadex or its substitutes are still used today in oncology, which is confirmed by the reviews of patients who are prescribed this drug for a long time.

“They removed the right breast, after the course of radiation therapy they prescribed Tamoxifen for 5 years”

It was proved that the effectiveness of the drug increases with long-term admission and it was prescribed immediately for five years of constant admission. This reduces the mortality of patients after discontinuation and prolongs life for decades. Treatment with estrogen antagonists can prevent the possibility of tumor metastasis. After this period, the oncologist assesses the condition and draws conclusions: prolong treatment, add cytotoxic drugs or aromatase inhibitors.

According to some data, the drug is effective only in elderly women. After long-term administration of the drug, adverse reactions are reported, which patients report: pain in the hip, weight gain, hair loss, varicose veins and thrombophlebitis, itching.

The drug can be prescribed and for preventive purposes to prevent breast cancer in women who are predisposed to this disease. Specific data have been obtained that taking the drug reduces the risk of developing breast cancer by one third. However, an unexpected side effect is found – there is a risk of sarcoma of the uterus. On this issue, discussions are under way and clinical trials are continuing. When appointing Tamoxifen for prophylaxis, the doctor should discuss with the patient the benefit of the drug and the existing risk.